Categories
Industry Trends

In the Weeds: Why Kitchen Culture Must Change to Safeguard Mental Health & Wellness

As we mark Mental Health Awareness Month, the culinary world is still in the weeds.

The once-glorified kitchen culture of hustle and hard living has started to give way to a more sustainable ethos, one that recognizes that the future of the industry depends not just on innovation and skill, but on the health and happiness of those behind the pass.

But while awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness has increased, the culinary industry still faces unique challenges requiring attention and change in workplace culture. So where do we go from here?

The Mental Health Crisis in Hospitality: A Global Snapshot

The statistics paint a sobering picture. A 2023 survey by Cozymeal found that 44% of chefs who responded said that working at a restaurant had a negative impact on their mental health. 70% of chefs surveyed that they’d experienced anxiety as a result of working in a restaurant, and 65% said that toxic restaurant culture has made them feel isolated from the outside world.

Last year in 2024, over 76% of hospitality workers reported experiencing mental health issues during their careers, a significant rise from 56% in 2018. Factors such as long hours, high-pressure environments, the cost-of-living crisis, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have exacerbated these challenges. A recent study in Australia found that one in five chefs surveyed expressed a strong likelihood of leaving their jobs within the next year due to mental distress. Several studies have shown that 40% of turnover within the hospitality sector can be linked to mental health issues.

Despite a growing awareness to these issues, stigma remains a barrier. A 2024 UK survey revealed that 45% of employees feel uncomfortable discussing mental health concerns with their managers, fearing negative repercussions.

These numbers are still surprising, despite seeing the picture they paint on screen in most depictions of restaurant environments in movies and TV. While The Bear has made ‘Yes, Chef,’ viral, the data shows that much more must be done.

Prevention is Better Than Cure

That is what Michelin-starred Chef Emmanuel Stroobant’s wife told him. Fifteen years ago, Stroobant found himself burnt out, dependent on alcohol, and starting to spiral. Overseeing twelve restaurants and 350 staff members, the pressure caught up with him, but he managed to recognize the grip of alcoholism amidst the demanding pressures. It was this moment of awakening that shifted his view on mental health, a pivot towards both personal recovery and advocating within the industry.

Now, Emmanuel advocates for a culture that values rest, reflection, and mental resilience as much as culinary excellence. He realized that taking care of oneself is more than an act of self-preservation; it’s a responsibility we have towards those around us.

“The word chef in French doesn’t mean cook. It means leader.  It means somebody who is going to take and lead a team to execute something to the best potential perfection. And as a leader, it’s very important that you get your sh*t together, because if you lose it, well, your probably not going to be a very good leader or a very long leader,” says Stroobant. “It will have an impact on pretty much all or anything you’re going to be doing as a chef or as a man or a woman,” he adds. “[Prevention] is not an act of selfishness. When you take care of yourself, you actually do take care of the rest of the people around you.”

Emmanuel Stroobant speaks about burnout during Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2024

Emmanuel has also witnessed a generational shift in attitudes towards work-life balance. The millennials stepping into the industry view long hours and high stress differently than their predecessors. They may have been inspired to enter the industry by legends like Anthony Bourdain, who brought the underbelly of kitchens to the fore for so many (“it’s a life that grounds you down,” he said), but they have also had to grieve his loss and come to grips with his tragic suicide. Emmanuel stresses the importance of embracing the younger generation of chefs, bringing fresh perspectives, challenging the norms of rigorous hours and high stress. He sees their leadership as essential for the industry’s evolution.

He advocates for training teams in managing stress, open communication and creating supportive environments, to ensure better resources that go beyond understanding the issue to acting on it. Emmanuel’s story shows how essential this is, and that mental health isn’t contrary to strength; instead, it’s integral to sustainable success, both in and out of the kitchen.

Starting a Conversation

Formerly in the food supplier industry, Kris Hall witnessed firsthand the high-pressure environment that many experience. More importantly, he recognized the silent battles with depression that individuals faced within the industry.

In 2019, Hall founded The Burnt Chef Project. His personal battle with depression laid the foundation for this initiative, aimed at raising awareness and providing support for mental health issues in hospitality. Initially conceived as a photography campaign, the project quickly gained momentum, amplifying critical conversations about mental well-being across the globe.

Kris’ nonprofit organization is dedicated to raising awareness and providing support for mental health issues in the hospitality sector, highlighting the need to build a supportive community that understands and acts to improve mental health at work.

“Our mission to eradicate stigma and improve the working environment has been critical to our success,” says Kris. “I wanted to try and make a meaningful impact and a change to the industry that I fell in love with.”

One of The Burnt Chef Project’s remarkable accomplishments is its evolving network of volunteers across 184 countries. Their 2023/24 Social Impact Report highlights a marked increase in demand for mental health support services in hospitality, with their 24/7 text support service usage tripling in recent years.

These passionate individuals play a pivotal role in educating and supporting hospitality workers struggling with mental health issues. Their work is one example of how offering tools, educational resources, and therapeutic services can make an impact, and the need to reinforce a collective commitment to a culture shift.

Kris Hall, founder of The Burnt Chef Project
Shifting the Narrative: From Hustle to Health

Over the past few years, mental health has transitioned from a neglected issue to a trendy topic across various sectors. While we are on a better path towards understanding, the data shows we have a long way to go in prioritizing mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.

Advocates like Emmanuel Stroobant and organizations like The Burnt Chef Project are playing a pivotal role in changing the narrative around mental health services and calling for action. By empowering chefs with the right tools, education, resources, and a platform for open conversation, they are creating a culture where mental health is prioritized.

There is also a business case for prioritising and investing in mental health. For starters, companies that implement mental health training for managers report a 30% reduction in mental health-related absences. High turnover rates impact the bottom line, and fostering supportive, healthy work environments can reduce costs, improve retention, and drive long-term success.

The process towards destigmatizing mental health, changing entrenched workplace cultures, and creating supportive environments will require concerted efforts at every level. Hospitality leaders must actively engage with their teams, fostering open dialogues and prioritizing work-life balance. Addressing these issues at both grassroots and executive levels will lead to healthier, more resilient professionals, and better lives at work and at home.

Next Steps for Chefs: Cultivating Wellbeing in the Workplace

For Every Chef:

  • Prevention over cure: Prioritize self-care, and don’t neglect your nutrition.
  • Set boundaries: Communication is crucial; knowing when to say no helps maintain mental health.
  • Open dialogue: Foster conversations about mental health with peers and mentors.
  • Box breathing technique: Adopted from elite military training, ‘box breathing’ offers a method to manage stress seamlessly, promoting calmness in high-pressure situations.
  • Seek support: Utilise resources like CHOW and The Burnt Chef Project.

For Kitchen Leaders:

  • Implement team training & support: Provide mental health training for management to identify and address issues proactively. Equip teams with the tools to manage stress, and encourage open communication.
  • Foster supportive environments: Establish policies that promote work-life balance and psychological safety, as well as adequate time for breaks, sick leave, and health services.
  • Encourage feedback: Regularly invite input from staff to identify areas for improvement.

For Organizations:

  • Invest in resources: Allocate funds for mental health programs and support services.
  • Promote awareness: Engage in campaigns that destigmatize mental health discussions.
  • Monitor progress: Regularly assess the effectiveness of wellbeing initiatives and adjust as needed.
Podcasts & Webcasts: Deep Dive into Mental Health & Wellbeing

From Burnout to Breakthrough: Addressing Industry Wellbeing with The Burnt Chef Project CEO Kris Hall

Listen now

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with Kris Hall, CEO and founder of The Burnt Chef Project. Having faced his own mental health challenges throughout his career, Kris launched The Burnt Chef Project in 2019 to tackle the stigma around mental health in the industry. What began as a black-and-white photography campaign offering raw glimpses into the lives of hospitality professionals has since grown into a global movement spanning over 180 countries.

From Burnout to Balance: A Chef’s Guide to Mental Wellness with Emmanuel Stroobant,Chef-Owner of the two-Michelin-starred Saint Pierre

Watch now

In his session from Worldchefs Congress 2024, Chef Emmanuel explores the multifaceted impact of burnout on performance, customer satisfaction, and personal life. Burnout is more than just fatigue; it’s a pervasive challenge affecting both leaders and their teams. Through this conversation, Emmanuel emphasizes the necessity of balancing professional demands with personal well-being.

Prioritizing Mental Health – Wellness Tools for Chefs and Hospitality Workers with Jasmin Parks-Papadopoulos

Listen now

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with Jasmin Parks-Papadopoulos, Chief Growth Officer at CHOW (Culinary Hospitality Outreach Wellness) and a former chef turned certified life coach. They discuss the unique challenges faced by hospitality workers, community support, and trauma-informed tools—all aimed at promoting a sustainable and healthier work environment. Learn how CHOW is transforming the mental wellness conversation in hospitality.

Be Kind to Hospitality with Gordon McIntyre, Founder of Hospitality Health

Listen now

On this episode of World on a Plate, we break through the taboo to talk about an important mission: providing support to individuals within the hospitality industry in areas of mental health, addiction, and well-being. Hospitality Health is a Scottish charity, formed in August of 2018 to support staff in the amazing world of hospitality. It is clear that for several years the industry has become more stressful for an extremely hard working management and staff. The trustees decided it was time to act and help those who are in need of support, by providing wellbeing advice and signposting organizations that can help.

Stress in the Kitchen with Wonda Grobbelaar, Training Expert and Researcher

Listen now

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with Wonda Grobbelaar – chef, soft skills training expert, and Ph.D. candidate researching stress in the kitchen. She shares her findings on mental health and automation technology in back-of-house, contributing factors to stress, and recommendations for future-proofing the industry through training and education in emotional intelligence.

More Resources

Chefs, Commercial Kitchens, and Stress: Could Socio-Demographic Factors such as Personality, Age, and Gender Influence the Stress Level of a Chef?

This study explores the role of socio-demographic factors such as age, gender, and personality on the stress levels of a chef and what could be done to improve the stress levels that are causing many health problems among those around the globe. 

Learn more

CHOW Temperature Take — Downloadable PDF

Download this PDF to use the CHOW Temperature Take in your business, community or organization.

Download the PDF

Food & Wine: Why Your Favorite Server Quit — the Real Cost of Hospitality Burnout

Restaurants are back, but the people who work there may not be OK. Here’s what you need to know.

Read more

If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, help is available. In the US, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text TalkWithUs to 66746. For international lifelines, visit this list.

Categories
Industry Trends

Preserving the Past, Cooking for the Future: How Heritage Cuisine Nourishes Culture, Health, and Innovation

Think of a dish that instantly transports you to a different time. It could be your grandfather’s khorovats over an open flame, your favorite festival treat, or a street food classic that defined your neighborhood growing up.

As chefs, we know the plate is a powerful storyteller. Heritage cuisines are a collection of stories that connect past, present, and future. Written in time-honored techniques and place-making ingredients, traditional cuisines are celebrations of cultural identity, and a path for sustainable and healthy eating.

There is a rising movement among chefs to look back to tradition for inspiration, with a realization that without protecting these food traditions, we run the risk of losing them altogether. More than nostalgia, the need to reconnect with heritage cuisines is being driven and shaped by a sense of loss, from the old taste of an heirloom tomato to the homogenization of haute cuisine.

Heritage cuisine is increasingly (re)gaining traction, providing new opportunities to use traditional knowledge for a better next chapter in food.

What Is Heritage Cuisine and Why It Matters

Across cultures, food is memory, and heritage cuisine is how we remember. Around the world, the processes of growing, preparing, and sharing food are deeply connected to local traditions, many of which have been passed down over centuries. UNESCO has declared dozens of culinary practices and dishes as Intangible Cultural Heritage, affirming that food culture is a vital part of our shared human experience.

Heritage cuisine is a stage for regional ingredients, unique cooking techniques, local customs, and history, from sarma’s symbol of hospitality in the Balkans to gumbo’s melting-pot history.

Sarma (Balkans)
Gumbo (New Orleans, USA)

Our foodways carry so much knowledge, about our environments, our histories, and ourselves. As Chef Jay Reifel, author of History of the World in Ten Dinners, put it: “There’s no better way to connect people to their own history than giving them the immediacy of a dish in front of them.”

The Origins of Sustainable Gastronomy

Traditional cuisines often evolved out of and relied on what was available, and as a matter of necessity, focused on seasonal produce, nose-to-tail cooking, and low-waste principles, well before the buzz around sustainable gastronomy. Dishes were tied to places and people, charting periods of abundance and scarcity, social hierarchies, and ingenuity. From the Mediterranean diet, known for its emphasis on seasonal produce, to the sustainable philosophy of Indian Vedic knowledge, heritage cuisines reflect adaptive approaches to feeding people in diverse climates and cultures.

Beyond providing inspiration and knowledge for how we can rebuild sustainable practices, these cuisines often promote healthier eating, too. Many traditional diets are rich in grains, vegetables, and lean meats, contrasting today’s often processed food-driven diets.

Tradition Meets Technology

“When we talk about heritage food, we are not saying to take you back to the past. No! We are still learning of the heritage food of that time, and… today we have to go into the future with that food with modern technology, modern techniques,” said Manjit Gill on Episode 34 of Worldchefs’ podcast, World on a Plate.

Heritage cuisine has a lot to offer to the future. As technology expands, from AI to digitalized recipe archives, it is providing new ways to share and preserve culinary traditions. Historical cookbooks are now being translated and adapted thanks to modern tools. Chef Jay Reifel, for example, used online databases and expert translators to reconstruct dishes from ancient Rome to Baghdad.

AI can help preserve oral knowledge, match hard to find or lost ingredients with modern alternatives, and make global culinary heritage more accessible to chefs, scholars, and home cooks. However, as we embrace technology, we have to remember that the flavor is only part of the recipe. The real value of heritage cuisine comes from understanding the cultural context and shared experience behind the dish.

Culinary Competitions Bring Food Culture to the World Stage

Worldchefs’ local, regional, and global competitions, such as the Global Chefs Challenge, are platforms for bringing these dishes and their stories to a global stage. Through specific competition categories, chefs are encouraged to highlight their local food culture, ingredients, and techniques. These events offer young chefs, especially, the opportunity to showcase their roots while innovating for the global arena. With mentorship, skill-building, and visibility, these competitions keep heritage cuisine alive in both tradition and evolution.

The upcoming Global Chefs Challenge Finals at the 2026 Worldchefs Congress & Expo in Wales will continue this mission, spotlighting not only culinary skill, but culinary heritage as a dynamic, evolving force in shaping the future.

Next Steps for Chefs

How can you help to ensure traditional cuisines are not lost to time or trends?

  • Rediscover and connect: Dive into your region’s culinary past, from online sources and from your community. Seek out intergenerational learning by joining a Young Chefs Club or becoming a mentor.
  • Cook with context: Teach and share the story behind each dish, not just its methods, and showcase living traditions on your menus, like fermentation and local ingredients.
  • Celebrate heritage in competition: Use your platform to showcase traditional recipes with a contemporary spin.
  • Innovate respectfully: Use modern tools to adapt and elevate heritage dishes while including and celebrating their cultural significance.
Podcasts & Webcasts: Deep Dive into Culinary Heritage

A History of the World in 10 Dinners with Author Chef Jay Reifel

Explore how stories, history, and food culture come together in this episode featuring Chef Jay Reifel.

Listen now

Sustainability Around the World #46: Exploring Zimbabwean Cuisine

An exploration of Zimbabwe’s culinary traditions through the ‘Whatz Cooking’ project.

Watch now

More Resources

Worldchefs Cultural & Heritage Recipes Collection


Discover a collection of traditional recipes from around the globe, celebrating culinary heritage and diversity.


Explore recipes

Worldchefs Culture Cuisine & Heritage Food Committee


Discover the team engaged with initiatives to preserve and promote traditional culinary practices and philosophies.


Learn more

Cheese Spaetzle (Germany)

Taste of Tradition Digital Cookbook

A compilation of recipes blending tradition with innovation, crafted by leading chefs worldwide.


Download cookbook

Food of Asia, Soul of Asia E-Book

Embark on a culinary journey through Asia with this free e-book featuring authentic recipes from across cultures.


Access e-book

Calling All Young Chefs: Sustainable Gastronomy Week


Are you a young chef between the ages of 18 and 39 with a passion for sustainable gastronomy? The World Food Forum invites you to celebrate the unique heritage of your region by joining Sustainable Gastronomy Week 2025 (16-22 June). For more details, visit https://youth.world-food-forum.org/. Apply before the deadline on May 15.

Categories
Blog Industry Trends

Building a More Inclusive Future in the Culinary Industry

In honor of International Women’s Day on March 8, Worldchefs dedicated the month to inclusivity, shining a light on women and diverse voices in the culinary industry. While the kitchen has long been perceived as a male-dominated space, the tides are shifting, and together we are building a better, more inclusive future.

Discover the dedication, resilience, talent, and innovation of women shaping our industry today.

Breaking Barriers and Building Legacies

Across the globe, remarkable female talents are pioneering the industry and building lasting legacies in the culinary world.

Chef Kimberly Tang, Co-Chair of Australia’s Young Chef Club, demonstrates leadership in action. Through her work as a mentor, she is empowering young chefs to take on new challenges and grow their expertise. Her culinary journey, shared in Episode 123 of Worldchefs’ podcast World on a Plate, underlines how women are not just participating in but reshaping the narrative of leadership in kitchens worldwide.

Similarly, Cheryl Cordier, founder of Worldchefs’ Education Partner International Culinary Studio, leads the way as she pioneers and shapes the future of culinary education. As a mentor herself, Cheryl acknowledges the significance of mentorship in her own journey, stating, “Running a scaled business requires different skills than starting one. It’s okay to admit you need help—in fact, it’s crucial for growth.”

Vanessa Polixene, member of the Mauritius Chefs Association and a Worldchefs Committee member, shares her journey as a mentor. At the Shandrani Hotel, Vanessa works with many enthusiastic and motivated trainees, demonstrating skills like how to make Bernaise and Hollandaise sauce. Throughout her work, she remains passionate about shaping the next generation of chefs. Vanessa’s journey as an educator and leader, like Cheryl’s and Kimberly’s, is a testament to the power of women driving industry change.

In addition to leadership and education, Constantina Papaioannou’s success at the Global Young Chefs Challenge Europe Regional Semi-Finals illustrates how women are excelling in competitive culinary arenas. Her victory is not just a personal achievement but also a beacon to inspire other women in their culinary pursuits.

“Growing up I was very lucky to have various female mentors around me such as my grandmother who inspired me to keep going and follow my dream. My advice to other female chefs is to always believe in yourself and keep trying to achieve your goals. The industry is in need of many other female chefs and leaders.”

– Constantina Papaioannou

From education and mentorship to competition, women are leaving their mark on the industry.

Inclusivity on a Global Scale

As a federation of 97 national chefs associations, Worldchefs sees inclusivity through its membership around the world, such as from the Swedish National Chefs Association. They are proud to have two strong female leaders, the president of the association, Maria, and the president of the Swedish Young Chefs Club, Rebecka, who pave the way for continued female leadership.

From Sweden to the Cook Islands, female leadership is growing. Karlene Taokia, President of Cook Islands Chefs Association and an active member of three Worldchefs’ committees, reveals where determination and ambition can lead. She explains what inspired her to become involved in the committees, “[I wanted] to join a team of dedicated members to advocate for culinary commitments and educational challenges for all communities around the world.”

One of these dedicated members who Karlene now joins and works alongside is Worldchefs newly-appointed Feed the Planet Chair, Shonah Chalmers. Having been highly involved for many years, Shonah joined us on Episode 121 of our podcast to discuss Feed the Planet’s past and her vision for its future. As an experienced culinary educator, Shonah inspires her students to become advocates for sustainability in and out of the kitchen.

Shonah, like Karlene, work alongside Worldchefs’ 180 committee member volunteers, coming from 64 countries, who serve as ambassadors of our organization. With a record number of committee members this term, Worldchefs takes a significant step towards greater inclusion, hearing from and interacting with more diverse voices across the globe.

Shaping a More Equitable Future

While the culinary industry has made great strides in its journey of inclusivity, there is still progress to be made in achieving true gender equity. Representation still remains a challenge, with, for example, only 6 female newly-starred in Michelin’s guide 2024 (Euronews). In early 2024, we discussed the lack of strong female representation in the Michelin Guide, discovering that the reasons behind the underrepresentation of women in leading culinary roles are often deeply rooted in sexism and structural inequalities. Despite this, change is happening. Organizations, culinary schools, and industry leaders are working for change, ensuring that talent and passion define industry success.

Beyond Gender: Moving Toward Holistic Inclusion

Beyond gender, inclusivity means embracing all – regardless of race, ethnicity, disability, or background. In March, our Sustainability Around the World webcast on Zimbabwean cuisine explored the rich culinary traditions of this food culture, enriching viewers with new knowledge from experts.

Worldchefs’ Cultural Cuisine & Heritage Food Committee is also spearheading inclusivity efforts, sharing recipes from each of its committee members’ cultures and promoting local cuisines. View the recipes here.

Language is another means of inclusivity which we are exploring through our education programs. Our Sustainability Education for Culinary Professionals has been recently translated into Arabic, making it accessible to thousands of Arabic-speaking culinary professionals worldwide. Plus, our Worldchefs Academy courses are now also in Hindi, marking the 8th language available on this free platform.

By championing diversity – whether through language, gender, culture, or cuisine – the culinary world grows stronger, richer, and more innovative. This month’s focus was just one step toward building a more inclusive future in our industry.

Do you have a story to share about inclusivity in the culinary industry? To share your story with us, click here.

Categories
Blog Career Tips Company / Partner Education Industry Trends News Partnership Press Releases

ScanBox and Worldchefs Renew Global Partnership

ScanBox and the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs) have renewed their global partnership, strengthening their commitment to equipping culinary professionals with innovative food transport, heating and cooling solutions.

  • ScanBox, the market leader in food holding equipment, continues as a Global Partner of Worldchefs, supporting professional chefs with cutting-edge food transport and holding solutions.
  • ScanBox continues as an Official Partner of the Worldchefs Global Chefs Challenge Final, enhancing competition conditions with state-of-the-art food holding technology.
  • ScanBox is confirmed as an Official Partner of the Worldchefs Congress in Wales 2026 and Paris 2028.

Paris, 5 March 2025 – Worldchefs (The World Association of Chefs’ Societies) has announced a renewed partnership with ScanBox, a market leader in sustainable food logistics solutions. The continued collaboration is based on a mutual commitment providing chefs worldwide with more efficient food logistics, improved working conditions, and the tools they need to deliver remarkable dining experiences.

ScanBox has 30 years of experience in developing insulated food transport and holding equipment with a focus on ergonomics, safety and ease of operation for customer satisfaction.  All products are developed and built in their factory in Olofström, Sweden. In 2024, ScanBox was recognized as one of Sweden’s fastest-growing companies, earning the DI Gasell Award from Dagens Industri.

Operating worldwide, their unique food holding and transportation carts are used by thousands of chefs around the globe and across a range of industries. With more than 1,300 customers and a presence in over 60 markets, ScanBox delivers reliable food logistic solutions to professional kitchens worldwide.

Food service simplified

ScanBox simplifies food logistics in professional kitchens with the market’s widest range of food transport trolleys for cold and hot holding. ScanBox products provide the flexibility to combine exactly the functions culinary professionals need, all in one box. Innovative design and construction provide numerous advantages compared to traditional cooling and heating boxes, with logistical challenges in mind to ensure stability and ease in demanding work environments.

ScanBox’s new product selector helps foodservice professionals find the solution for their unique needs, whether it’s for keeping food warm, cold, or neutrally stored.

Enhancing Culinary Competitions with ScanBox Solutions

As an Official Partner of Worldchefs Global Chefs Challenge, ScanBox will continue to provide high-performance insulated food transport carts, ensuring that top culinary competitors have the best tools to optimize their performance. The Global Chefs Challenge brings together top chefs representing countries from around the world , and ScanBox’s innovative solutions will contribute to the highest standards for competition conditions.

“We are delighted to extend our partnership with ScanBox. Scanbox has now been with us many years and their devotion to our competitions is a great partnership between our association and their company,” says Andy Cuthbert, President of Worldchefs. “With ScanBox’s expertise, our chefs will have access to the best food holding solutions, enabling them to perform at their highest level.”

Strengthening Presence at Worldchefs Congress

ScanBox will also continue as an Official Partner of the Worldchefs Congress in Wales 2026 and Paris 2028, showcasing its latest advancements in food holding technology. The biennial Worldchefs Congress & Expo brings together industry leaders, chefs, and innovators, fostering knowledge-sharing and collaboration across the global culinary community.

“Our renewed partnership with Worldchefs is an exciting opportunity for ScanBox,” says Johan Olsson, Global Sales Director at ScanBox. “We are proud to support professional chefs by providing smart, efficient, and ergonomic food holding solutions. Being part of Worldchefs’ events allows us to engage with the global culinary community and continue developing innovations tailored to their needs.”

Bringing Your Food with Care

At ScanBox, sustainability is an integrated part of business. ScanBox products and solutions are designed to support more sustainable food logistics by creating efficient and optimized workflows that reduce food waste and energy consumption. 

In the global commercial kitchen industry, where working conditions are often demanding and stressful, ScanBox food logistics solutions contribute to improved working conditions. By creating more balanced and efficient workflows, they hope to support both social and economic sustainability in the industry.

The continued partnership between ScanBox and Worldchefs reaffirms a shared dedication to equipping culinary professionals with the tools they need to excel. As ScanBox continues to set new standards for food holding technology, Worldchefs remains committed to fostering excellence, sustainability, and innovation within the industry.


About ScanBox

ScanBox offers food transport, heating & cooling solutions that are utilized in kitchens worldwide and across a wide range of industries. ScanBox food transportation boxes ensure the food will retain its quality from preparation through transport to final service.

ScanBox offers the market’s widest range of food transport trolleys for cold and hot holding, with the flexibility to easily combine different functions in one box.

Contributing to reduce food waste and optimize energy consumption

At ScanBox, sustainability is a natural and integrated part of the business. Their products and solutions are designed to support sustainable food logistics by creating efficient and optimized workflows that reduce food waste and energy consumption. 

30 years experience

ScanBox was established in 1992 and has since grown to a global business with more than 1,300 customers and a presence in over 60 markets.

Focus on growth

ScanBox has experienced steady growth, selling over 100,000 units since its inception and was named a Swedish Gasell company in 2024.

Learn more about ScanBox here.

About Worldchefs

The World Association of Chefs’ Societies, known as Worldchefs, is a federation made up of 110 national chef associations. A leading voice in the hospitality industry, Worldchefs carries years of history since its founding in 1928 at the Sorbonne by the venerable Auguste Escoffier.

Representing a mobilized international membership of culinary professionals, Worldchefs is committed to advancing the profession and leveraging the influence of the chef jacket for the betterment of the industry and humanity at large.

Worldchefs is dedicated to raising culinary standards and social awareness through these core focus areas:

  • Education – Worldchefs offers support for education and professional development through the landmark Worldchefs Academy online training program, a diverse network of Worldchefs Education Partners and curriculum, and the world’s first Global Culinary Certification recognizing on-the-job skillsin hospitality;
  • Networking – Worldchefs connects culinary professionals around the world through their online community platform and provides a gateway for industry networking opportunities through endorsed events and the biennial Worldchefs Congress & Expo;
  • Competition – Worldchefs sets global standards for competition rules, provides Competition Seminars and assurance of Worldchefs Certified Judges, and operates the prestigious Global Chefs Challenge;
  • Humanitarianism & Sustainability – Worldchefs Feed the Planet and World Chefs Without Borders programs relieve food poverty, deliver crisis support, and promote sustainability across the globe.

Visit www.worldchefs.org to learn more.

– END –

Media contact: 

Olivia Ruszczyk communications@worldchefs.org

Categories
Industry Trends

Top 5 Culinary Industry and Career Trends for 2025

The professional kitchen has always been a place of innovation, from establishing the brigade system to last-minute menu changes on the fly. While cooking is about instinct, it’s also about technology, strategy, and adaptability.

What skills will define the next generation of chefs? What tools will transform tomorrow’s menu? In this article, we explore five top culinary industry and career trends for 2025, backed by insights from Worldchefs’ programs and expert-led discussions, plus ways chefs can get equipped with the tools, certifications, and education needed to thrive.

1. Digital Credentials for Workplace Empowerment

The demand for verifiable skills and continuous learning is driving the adoption of digital credentials. Culinary professionals are increasingly looking to online certifications and digital credentials to showcase their expertise. Digital badges, such as those offered through Worldchefs webinars, help professionals gain global recognition and career mobility to position themselves for long-term success, especially as hiring practices evolve to prioritize certified competencies over traditional resumes.

For culinary schools and employers, investing in work-based training and a skills recognition tool like Global Culinary Certification is more important than ever to attract quality staff and develop a stronger team. Digital badges help build a successful employer brand, boost retention levels, and foster a work culture committed to professional development.

culinary industry
trends
2025
digital credentials

2. AI in the Kitchen

The integration of AI into the F&B industry is changing the game for culinary associations, restaurants, and foodservice professionals. AI can work for you in different ways. Understanding how to leverage AI can improve efficiency, enhance cost-saving measures, and help support creativity.

Worldchefs is committed to helping culinary associations and chefs embrace technology as a tool for innovation rather than a replacement for craftsmanship. Explore AI insights and recommended tools here: Resources to Harness the Power of Technology.

culinary industry
trends
2025
AI

3. Leadership and Skills Development

In 2025, setting yourself apart in the culinary industry means embracing continuous education and developing essential skills. Whether through open-source courses like those on Worldchefs Academy or top-tier education programs offered by Worldchefs Education Partners around the globe, investing in skills development is key.

In addition to structured learning, mentorship, global networking events, and leadership training are becoming essential for aspiring chefs who want to stand out. Chefs who expand their expertise in team leadership and business management will have a competitive edge in the evolving industry.

Showcasing a commitment to continuous learning and growth is equally as important, and achievable through international skills recognition frameworks like Global Culinary Certification.

culinary industry
trends
2025
certification
4. Food as Medicine

Consumer awareness around nutrition and wellness is driving the demand for chefs who understand the connection between food and health. Chefs are incorporating functional foods, plant-based diets, and specialized nutrition programs into their menus to meet consumer demand for healthier options.

Worldchefs has covered food as medicine in depth, featuring insights from industry experts, including Certified Executive Chef Nazim Khan and Dr. Timothy Harlan, in their World on a Plate podcast episodes, and at the 2024 Worldchefs Congress.

culinary industry
trends
2025
food as medicine

5. The Business Case for Sustainability

Sustainability is no longer optional, it’s a business imperative. Consumer awareness and demand for sustainable sourcing, waste reduction, and ethical operations continues to reshape the way foodservice businesses operate. Chefs and restaurateurs are integrating sustainable practices into their business models as a fundamental strategy for success.

For actionable strategies to improve operations in your kitchen, take the free Sustainability Education for Culinary Professionals course on Worldchefs Academy. Learn how sustainability can drive both profitability and positive impact, plus, get a digital badge that you can add to your LinkedIn, CV, or socials to showcase how you’re building skills for a better future.

culinary industry
trends
2025
sustainability

Stay Ahead of the Curve

As the largest global network of professional chef associations and culinary education institutions, Worldchefs is shaping the future of the industry by equipping chefs with the knowledge and skills needed to stay ahead. From leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency to understanding the connection between food and health and embedding sustainability into daily operations, Worldchefs is here to help our membership adapt, innovate, and lead.

Keep learning and leading the way forward in 2025! Be sure to follow Worldchefs on Instagram @worldchefs and LinkedIn, and subscribe to newsletters for the latest industry insights.

Categories
Blog Career Tips Company / Partner Education Industry Trends News Partnership Press Releases

Future Menus 2024: Unilever Food Solutions Introduces New Global Report – Future Menus to Worldchefs

Worldchefs partner, Unilever Food Solutions, released the Future Menus report, providing a comprehensive look into the future of food service and evidence-based insights to help chefs stay ahead of the curve.

  • Unilever Food Solutions (UFS) Future Menus 2024 report highlights eight pivotal trends including waste reduction, nostalgic comfort foods, and plant-based innovations, designed to future-proof menus and inspire innovation.
  • The UFS Future Menus Trend Report findings are translated into practical, action-driven solutions for foodservice operators globally, including recipe inspiration, preparation techniques and ingredient suggestions to help chefs create menu items that are delicious, nutritious, on-trend, profitable, and efficient.
  • With a Global UFS launch in March 2024, it was specially introduced to Worldchefs’ audience at Congress 2024 in Singapore, where the UFS breakout session on the report’s findings showcased the trends, capturing the imagination of culinary professionals worldwide.

Paris, 13 December 2024 – Worldchefs (the World Association of Chefs’ Societies) is proud to announce the continuation of its strategic partnership with Unilever Food Solutions (UFS), highlighting UFS’s latest innovation: the Future Menus 2024 report. This collaboration underscores both organizations’ dedication to shaping the future of the culinary industry and empowering chefs worldwide with the resources and training on the latest trends, techniques, and sustainable solutions.

A Vision for Tomorrow’s Kitchens

The Future Menus 2024 report by Unilever Food Solutions offers a comprehensive look into the future of food service, providing key insights to help chefs stay ahead of the curve. The report identifies eight influential trends, including Low-Waste Menus, Modernized Comfort Food, and vegetable-forward culinary innovations.

Designed to inspire, it equips food service professionals with actionable strategies to navigate and thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. The report includes UFS’ Global Menu Trends​, 16 recipes developed by UFS chefs around the world, and tips, tools and techniques to help chefs create on-trend, profitable menus​, including professional insights on topics such as Gen Z & Millennial diners, menu streamlining, and AI in restaurants.

Rigorously researched, Future Menus 2024 draws on data from over 21 countries, including social media analytics with 77,000 keywords and feedback from more than 1,600 chef professionals via the UFS Online Operators panel. It also integrates insights from UFS’s 250 professional chefs and third-party industry reports.

Among the standout trends is Flavor Shock, reflecting Gen Z’s appetite for bold, fusion-driven dining experiences, and Plant-Powered Protein, which prioritizes plant-rich ingredients such as beans and legumes to meet the growing demand for sustainable, flexitarian diets. Additional highlights include Local Abundance, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients, and Low Waste Menus, offering strategies to optimize resources while maximizing sustainability and profitability.

Empowering Chefs Through Information and Education

UFS joined as a Worldchefs’ partner in November 2022, bringing together Worldchefs’ network of chefs in over 105 countries with UFS’s industry-leading creation and discussion of food trends, chef training, and product solutions. The collaboration united UFS’s online chef training portal, UFS Academy, with Worldchefs Approved Courses platform. Through this initiative, hospitality professionals gain unlimited free access to a selection of high-definition training videos, all filmed and created with expert chefs. The suite of training courses includes videos that are under two minutes to help learners achieve actionable skills in an accessible format, covering topics such as menu design, plant-based recipes, and mental health in the kitchen.

“Our partnership with Unilever Food Solutions exemplifies our shared dedication to culinary excellence and building a better future, providing chefs with the tools to innovate and lead in a dynamic industry,” said Ragnar Fridriksson, Worldchefs Managing Director. “Access to key consumer insights, coupled with skills training and education, is key to this process. The Future Menus 2024 report is an incredible resource for chefs aiming to future-proof their offerings and create meaningful impact, and we are proud to continue working with UFS to empower chefs everywhere with new information, resources, and opportunities.”

Shaping the Culinary Landscape

During the Worldchefs Congress 2024 in Singapore, Unilever Food Solutions introduced the Future Menus 2024 report with a breakout session, inviting attendees for an exclusive glimpse into the report’s findings. Garnering significant media attention, the session emphasized the importance of sustainability and innovation. Key themes included minimizing food waste, embracing nostalgia with a modern twist, and leveraging plant-based technologies to meet the growing demand for sustainable dining options.

Worldchefs invites chefs, educators, and culinary innovators to explore the Future Menus 2024 report and engage with key insights set to shape the future of the industry.

About Unilever Food Solutions

Unilever Food Solutions (UFS) is a business of chefs for chefs. Accounting for 20% of Unilever’s Foods Business Group, UFS operates in over 75 countries as a dedicated supplier to the food service industry. Drawing on the expertise of over 250 professional in-house chefs, UFS offers food service professionals high-quality products, industry inspiration and best-in-class services. Our highly regarded portfolio of key products and solutions features power brands like Knorr Professional and Hellmann’s that perform exceptionally well in the professional kitchen.

The UFS Positive Kitchens initiative helps to foster a positive culture in the professional kitchen by addressing the key challenges commonly encountered and providing tools, training and advice to promote well being. Our culinary training programmes provide chefs and food service professionals with best-in-class services and tools.

For details, visit www.ufs.com.

About Worldchefs

The World Association of Chefs’ Societies, known as Worldchefs, is a federation made up of 110 national chef associations. A leading voice in the hospitality industry, Worldchefs carries years of history since its founding in 1928 at the Sorbonne by the venerable Auguste Escoffier.

Representing a mobilized international membership of culinary professionals, Worldchefs is committed to advancing the profession and leveraging the influence of the chef jacket for the betterment of the industry and humanity at large.

Worldchefs is dedicated to raising culinary standards and social awareness through these core focus areas:

  • Education – Worldchefs offers support for education and professional development through the landmark Worldchefs Academy online training program, a diverse network of Worldchefs Education Partners and curriculum, and the world’s first Global Culinary Certification recognizing on-the-job skillsin hospitality;
  • Networking – Worldchefs connects culinary professionals around the world through their online community platform and provides a gateway for industry networking opportunities through endorsed events and the biennial Worldchefs Congress & Expo;
  • Competition – Worldchefs sets global standards for competition rules, provides Competition Seminars and assurance of Worldchefs Certified Judges, and operates the prestigious Global Chefs Challenge;
  • Humanitarianism & Sustainability – Worldchefs Feed the Planet and World Chefs Without Borders programs relieve food poverty, deliver crisis support, and promote sustainability across the globe.

Media contact: 

Olivia Ruszczyk communications@worldchefs.org

Categories
Company / Partner Industry Trends News Partnership Press Releases

Worldchefs and Ariane Fine Porcelain Bring Excellence to the Table with New Global Partnership

Worldchefs has announced a global partnership with Ariane Fine Porcelain, a leading manufacturer of high-quality porcelain tableware, to support chefs worldwide in their demanding kitchens.
  • Worldchefs has partnered with Ariane Fine Porcelain, a leading manufacturer of high-quality porcelain tableware.
  • The new partnership between Worldchefs and Ariane Fine Porcelain is set to enhance the culinary profession with high-quality, durable tableware, supporting chefs globally in their demanding environments.
  • Learn more about Worldchefs partnership opportunities at www.worldchefs.org/partnership.

Paris│3 July 2024 – The World Association of Chefs Societies (Worldchefs) is proud to announce a new partnership with Ariane Fine Porcelain, a leading manufacturer of high-quality porcelain tableware. This collaboration underscores Ariane Fine Porcelain’s commitment to supporting the culinary arts and empowering chefs worldwide.

bringing excellence to the table

The partnership between Worldchefs and Ariane is grounded in a shared passion for supporting culinary excellence and fostering a thriving global culinary community. Together, they will provide educational content, engage with young chefs, and support culinary competitions and industry events like Worldchefs Congress, empowering the next generation of culinary leaders.

Worldchefs President, Thomas Gugler, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “We are proud to partner with Ariane Fine Porcelain, a company that shares our commitment to excellence, sustainability, and the empowerment of chefs. This partnership enhances the tools available to our members and underscores our mission to foster a sustainable and thriving culinary community all around the world.”

Beyond Aesthetics: Functionality and Durability for Busy Kitchens

Established in 2014, Ariane Fine Porcelain has earned a reputation for its exquisite designs and dedication to quality. While aesthetics are important, the company understands the practical needs of chefs. Ariane’s porcelain tableware is meticulously crafted to withstand the demands of a busy kitchen environment.

  • Rigorous Firing Cycles: Plates are remarkably strong and chip-resistant, able to handle the heat of a bustling kitchen.
  • Optimal Serving Temperature: Food retains its ideal temperature, ensuring a flawless dining experience.
  • Effortless Food Presentation: The smooth, glazed surface allows for precise plating, showcasing culinary creations with ease.
  • Edge Chip Resistance: The core collections are renowned for their durability, making them a premium choice for even the most demanding chefs.
Green by design: A Commitment to Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Ariane Fine Porcelain goes beyond beautiful, functional tableware. They are committed to sustainable practices and social responsibility. Since opening their state-of-the-art factory in 2014, eco-conscious principles have been integral to their production process.

By choosing Ariane Fine Porcelain, chefs contribute to a company actively shaping a sustainable future for the culinary world.

Discover the Ariane Difference

Visit www.arianefineporcelain.com or contact info@umbertoceramics.com to explore all the collections and find the perfect pieces for your establishment.

ABOUT ARIANE

Ariane Fine Porcelain is a leading manufacturer of high-quality porcelain tableware, renowned for its innovative design, technical expertise, and commitment to quality. Crafted by industry professionals for industry professionals, Ariane collections blend creativity, practicality, durability, and timeless elegance seamlessly. Suitable for all fine hospitality, catering, and food & beverage establishments, Ariane Fine Porcelain is dedicated to supporting the culinary arts and promoting sustainable practices.

Umberto Ceramics International Private Limited
Sadoliya – Galteshwar Road, Off. N H 8,
Galesara, Prantij, Gujarat 383205, India
+91 70960 07100
info@umbertoceramics.com

ABOUT WORLDCHEFS

The World Association of Chefs’ Societies, known as Worldchefs, is a federation made up of 110 national chef associations. A leading voice in the hospitality industry, Worldchefs carries years of history since its founding in 1928 at the Sorbonne by the venerable Auguste Escoffier.

Representing a mobilized international membership of culinary professionals, Worldchefs is committed to advancing the profession and leveraging the influence of the chef jacket for the betterment of the industry and humanity at large.

Worldchefs is dedicated to raising culinary standards and social awareness through these core focus areas:

  • Education – Worldchefs offers support for education and professional development through the landmark Worldchefs Academy online training program, a diverse network of Worldchefs Education Partners and curriculum, and the world’s first Global Culinary Certification recognizing on-the-job skillsin hospitality;
  • Networking – Worldchefs connects culinary professionals around the world through their online community platform and provides a gateway for industry networking opportunities through endorsed events and the biennial Worldchefs Congress & Expo;
  • Competition – Worldchefs sets global standards for competition rules, provides Competition Seminars and assurance of Worldchefs Certified Judges, and operates the prestigious Global Chefs Challenge;
  • Humanitarianism & Sustainability – Worldchefs Feed the Planet and World Chefs Without Borders programs relieve food poverty, deliver crisis support, and promote sustainability across the globe.

For media inquiries or more information about the partnership, please contact Olivia Ruszczyk at communications@worldchefs.org.

– END –

Categories
Company / Partner Industry Trends News Partnership Press Releases

Worldchefs and Kentaur Come Together to Elevate Culinary Work Wear

A new partnership between Worldchefs and Kentaur is set to enhance the culinary profession with high-quality, durable work wear, supporting chefs globally in their demanding environments.

  • Worldchefs has partnered with Kentaur to provide premium work wear for chefs, enhancing performance and comfort in demanding kitchen environments.
  • The official chefswear provider of Worldchefs, Kentaur will outfit competitors in the Global Chefs Challenge Finals.
  • Learn more about Worldchefs partnership opportunities at www.worldchefs.org/partnership.

Paris│31 May 2024 – The World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs) has announced a new partnership with Kentaur, Danish specialists in innovative and functional work wear. This collaboration aims to enhance the work experience for culinary professionals worldwide by providing high-quality, durable, and stylish workwear designed specifically for demanding kitchen environments.

outfitting the world’s best chefs

Kentaur is already a top choice in work wear for the world’s best chefs, and a proud supporter of culinary competition teams including the Danish, German, Swiss, and Finland’s gold medal-winning culinary team. 

As part of this partnership, Kentaur will be the official chefswear provider for the World Association of Chefs’ Societies, outfitting Worldchefs board members, committee members, and participants at key events such as the leading industry event Worldchefs Congress and renowned culinary competition Global Chefs Challenge.

Made for you, with you, at Work

At Kentaur, the creation of work wear is a collaborative process, designed to make the workday easier for hotel and restaurant industry professionals. The company works closely with chefs, including the National Culinary Team of Denmark, to ensure their products meet the specific needs of the industry. This hands-on approach guarantees that every detail of Kentaur workwear is both functional and comfortable.

Kentaur ensures their work wear is highly functional and meets industry needs by engaging directly with users and listening to their feedback. This collaborative approach guarantees that their products not only fit perfectly but also maintain their quality even after the extensive use and numerous washes that come along with life in the kitchen.

Made for people. At work.

Since 1990, Kentaur has focused on creating workwear that, in addition to looking good, is also comfortable and functional, down to the smallest detail – giving you workwear you actually enjoy wearing.

Sustainability and Responsibility

Kentaur work wear Worldchefs

Kentaur’s workwear stands out for its meticulous attention to detail and its commitment to sustainability. The company emphasizes responsible production practices, ensuring that every piece of clothing is created with minimal environmental impact. Their WorkWear&Care strategy focuses on high durability, timeless styles, and socially responsible production methods, all while contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Key features of Kentaur workwear include:

  • High Durability & Long Lifetime: Products are designed to withstand rigorous use, ensuring a long lifespan.
  • Timeless Styles: Classic designs that remain relevant over time.
  • Responsible Production: Commitment to social and environmental responsibility in all production processes.
  • Circular Take-Back Solutions: Initiatives to give old garments a new life, reducing landfill impact.

By choosing Kentaur workwear, Worldchefs members are not only investing in high-quality apparel but also supporting a company that prioritizes sustainability and ethical practices.

Worldchefs President, Thomas Gugler, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “We are thrilled to join forces with Kentaur, whose dedication to quality and sustainability aligns with Worldchefs’ values. This partnership will provide our members all around the globe with access to workwear that enhances their performance and comfort, helping them to excel in their culinary pursuits.”

About Kentaur

Kentaur work wear Worldchfes

Kentaur, a Danish-based company, has been dedicated to crafting exceptional workwear since 1990. Their philosophy, “Kentaur workwear is made for people. At work,” reflects their commitment to creating garments that are not only functional and comfortable but also tailored to the unique needs of professionals. With a strong focus on ergonomics, design, and durability, Kentaur’s products support the daily work of chefs, waitstaff, and other hospitality professionals.

“Our designs and straightforward service reflect our Danish roots. We are on a journey towards making a positive impact on our industry by developing take-back solutions and encouraging our supply chain to innovate in textile development. Our high-quality products guarantee durability and longevity, even in the most challenging kitchen environments,” says Kentaur’s team.

About Worldchefs

The World Association of Chefs’ Societies, known as Worldchefs, is a federation made up of 110 national chef associations. A leading voice in the hospitality industry, Worldchefs carries years of history since its founding in 1928 at the Sorbonne by the venerable Auguste Escoffier.

Representing a mobilized international membership of culinary professionals, Worldchefs is committed to advancing the profession and leveraging the influence of the chef jacket for the betterment of the industry and humanity at large.

Worldchefs is dedicated to raising culinary standards and social awareness through these core focus areas:

  • Education – Worldchefs offers support for education and professional development through the landmark Worldchefs Academy online training program, a diverse network of Worldchefs Education Partners and curriculum, and the world’s first Global Culinary Certification recognizing on-the-job skillsin hospitality;
  • Networking – Worldchefs connects culinary professionals around the world through their online community platform and provides a gateway for industry networking opportunities through endorsed events and the biennial Worldchefs Congress & Expo;
  • Competition – Worldchefs sets global standards for competition rules, provides Competition Seminars and assurance of Worldchefs Certified Judges, and operates the prestigious Global Chefs Challenge;
  • Humanitarianism & Sustainability – Worldchefs Feed the Planet and World Chefs Without Borders programs relieve food poverty, deliver crisis support, and promote sustainability across the globe.

For media inquiries or more information about the partnership, please contact Olivia Ruszczyk at communications@worldchefs.org.

– END –


Categories
Blog Company / Partner Education FeedThePlanet FeedThePlanet - Blog Industry Trends Member News News

Young Chefs Are Taking the Industry Back to School

Young Chefs Are Taking the Industry Back to School: In Conversation with Rebecca van Bommel, Worldchefs Young Chefs Ambassador

What do the next generation of industry leaders have to say about key challenges for the future? We hear from Rebecca van Bommel, an up-and-coming culinary voice and one to watch. Her early career already has an impressive résumé: Worldchefs Global Development of Young Chefs Committee member, Culinary Federation Canada’s Young Chef Liaison, Red Seal Certified Young Chef, and competitor with Culinary Team Canada. She shares her insights to help pave the way for young people in hospitality.
How did you wind up in this profession? What was your pathway?

I knew from the start that I wanted to pursue something in the culinary field. I’ve always loved baking, making different desserts for my family and friends, cooking. As soon as I finished high school, I went straight into a two-year culinary school program and that just solidified the passion I had for the industry and how much I loved it. From there, I did some apprenticeships in Ireland and really enjoyed that as well, and just kept cooking. I did a few different avenues—hotels, local pubs, a Michelin star—and then COVID hit and the industry slowed down a bit. Some chefs I had been working with previously on a contract basis at food shows reached out to me and had a food sales position open. And that’s how I transitioned over into that avenue. I’ve been enjoying it.

What do you love about being in the food broker world?

The food broker world I love because you get to see behind-the-scenes. I get to interact and talk with different chefs every single day, talk to them about what products they’re using and why, and get a little insight into their restaurant or their business and how they run things and what they prefer. It’s really cool for me, coming from a chef background, to get a behind-the-scenes look into different chefs’ lives, so that’s been enjoyable for me.

You also cook at a retirement home. What is unique about serving that market?

Working in the retirement community, that opportunity also presented itself during COVID. I got into that world and realized—wow—they make really good food. We serve steak, we serve lamb, we serve lobster tails to our residents.

Depending on the restaurant, you often don’t get to talk to the people who are eating your food. Retirement is completely different because it’s the same people every single day, and you can actually build a relationship with them, find out their likes and dislikes. There’s a lot of creativity allowed in retirement. You’re not making the same dishes every day like you would often in a restaurant. Every day is different. And you can take what the residents are telling you, what they love, what they don’t love, and take that into account and create amazing food for them.

Competition—it’s something you do a lot at a very high level. Any lessons learned from the competition world?

I did my first competition while I was still in culinary school. It was a small, local one. I said, ‘I’ll do this just for fun. See where it goes. Just have fun with it.’ I got 1st place. And then I was kind of like, oh, this is fun.

It’s a good stress. It’s a stress, but it’s a stress that motivates you to want to try better. Segueing from that competition, I was invited to compete at the Culinary Olympics on a regional team. And that was probably the most stressful summer of my life—the practicing and preparing—and I said, ‘I will never do this again. This is not worth it.’ But then we got to IKA. Just to see all the other competitors and how big it is, and how proud you feel. Now I’m on my third Culinary Olympics team, and I don’t think that’s over any time soon.

Let’s jump into the world of sustainability. Where are our young people in this equation?

I think young chefs especially are extremely aware about sustainability in the industry and in their careers. I know it was something we talked about when I was in culinary school and how important it is to prevent food waste. Food waste is a huge part of it, and I think young chefs for the most part are very much aware and try to do their best about that. Another big factor is plastic waste, which again resurfaced with the pandemic because there was a lot of single-use plastics that were necessary at the time.

Young chefs are definitely aware of it and know that in order to have a bright future it’s something that they need to be mindful of on a daily basis. The issue with young chefs is sometimes they don’t have the support in their jobs to be able to do those types of things.

Are they empowered to make that change?

I would say it largely depends on what type of restaurant they’re in. For example, I’ve worked in a small local pub that got a lot of their ingredients from local farmers, and we used everything we could. We’d use carrot tops to make pesto and if we were to get fresh meat in, we’d use every part of the animal.

But then on the other hand, you have things like fine dining and Michelin stars, where they’ll make a square pan of something and cut out circles, and then you have all this waste. Or they’ll only pick the most perfect-looking carrots to put on the plate because of course we eat with their eyes first, and that’s important for that level of dining.

I think it depends on where they’re working. Young chefs in a smaller, independent restaurant would feel more empowered than say, a Michelin-starred restaurant where there’s that level, that standard that they have to keep up. And it’s so much harder to do that sustainably.

How about in competition?

With competitions it’s very hard to keep it sustainable, especially with the number of practice runs you have to go through to get to the competition. But I know even in the rules and the judging criteria, they’re becoming a lot more mindful of that.

In the past, where you might have used plastic tasting spoons, now the standard is to use wood or bamboo, something compostable. Same with sorting waste. They really focus on that. If you have trim from vegetables that you could use in a soup or use in another dish—save that, set it aside, put that to use. It’s a big focus, but it’s hard to do.

Another thing we try to do on our team—one of our competitions is cooking for 110 people. If we’re going to do a practice run, we want to find either 110 people we can feed so that food is not going to waste, or somewhere we can donate the food.

What would your advice be to a young person who wants to do things sustainably at a workplace where that’s not a priority?

I would say to start with a small change, because even the small things make a difference. You’re not going to change the chef’s mindset overnight and suddenly everything’s going to be sustainable. But if there’s one little thing, one little practice in the restaurant where you could suggest a more sustainable alternative, start with that. And that might open the doors for future conversations. That might get the chef thinking as well, ‘What else could I do? That was an easy change that didn’t affect the quality of my food at all. What else could I do to be more sustainable?’

Is sustainability something that is top of mind for young chefs looking for a place to work?

It’s hard to speak on behalf of all young chefs, but I would say sustainability isn’t necessarily top top. It’s definitely cuisine, style, food, and skill. But there is a niche in restaurants that are nose-to-tail or farm-to-table. In that sense, a lot of young chefs look for those types of establishments and want to work there, and those are more sustainable establishments naturally.

I don’t think they go in looking for sustainable businesses, but they might go looking for something that operates in that sense, where they’re very mindful of using local fresh ingredients and using every part of the ingredient.

What do you want to see from employers today?

Young people, we’re kind of driven by low risk, high reward. Going back to the pandemic as well, when a lot of chefs didn’t have work because restaurants were closed, it gave them a chance to breathe and a lot of them realized, ‘Why am I doing this to myself? Why am I working crazy, long hours, no days off? Really tough work environments, stressful work environments, no breaks. Why, when I could have better work-life balance?’ I think the pandemic brought that into focus. The working conditions that are typical of our industry, I’m not saying everywhere is like that but it’s kind of classically how it’s been.

There’s a big lack of workers because young chefs have realized ‘I don’t want this life anymore and if you can’t give me a more balanced schedule, some benefits, health benefits or otherwise, and better pay, I’m going to go to another industry.’

Do you think the foodservice community is doing enough to support young people as they grow into this profession?

A resounding no. What young chefs are looking for, and I hate to say it this way—money is a huge driver because at the end of the day, if you can’t put food on your own plate, why are you going to spend your time putting food on other people’s plates?

There are a lot of supports in place, like from Worldchefs, but when it comes to the actual work side of things, the typical environment, especially in restaurants, in the culinary industry, it’s not supportive of young chefs.

Can you give us one piece of advice for young chefs, and one piece of advice for those of us who have been in the industry for quite a while longer?

The piece of advice I have for young chefs I’m borrowing from one of my instructors in culinary school who told me this and it hit home and enhanced by experience as a young chef.

Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Volunteer for everything. If you’re in school and there’s an event happening and they need two volunteers, put your hand up and join. If they’re having an amazing guest speaker but you have to give up your Saturday afternoon, go to that guest speaker. It’s going to enhance your experience and enhance your education. You can go to culinary school and pass all the courses and get the diploma, but if you haven’t gone above and beyond and done all the extras and joined competitions, you’re not getting the same experience as someone who has.

Go online, go to Worldchefs, take part in these webinars, take part in these free courses, especially the sustainability ones because that’s where the future’s going. And do all these extra things and you will have so much more knowledge and so many more tools to empower you going out into the workforce.

And for the more established generation of chefs?

Listen to the young chefs. While more accomplished chefs, of course they have a world of experience. They’ve been here, they’ve been there, they’ve done this and that in many competitions and cooked in many different places and have tons of knowledge and experience from that.

But still, keep in mind to listen to the younger generation of people who aren’t so established, people just starting out. They also have very valuable ideas and valuable knowledge themselves and can teach you things that you may not have even thought of. Sustainability would be a huge one of those because it’s something we think about a lot more and we grew up with and know more about that we could teach to you.


chefs
young chefs
rebecca van bommel
sustainability

Young Chefs get a discounted rate to Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2024, in Singapore this October! Don’t miss the Bill Gallagher Young Chefs Forum and your chance to connect with industry leaders!

Looking for more ways to get involved with an international community of motivated Young Chefs? Learn more about Worldchefs’ Young Chefs Club here.

Learn more about Worldchefs’ Feed the Planet programs at www.feedtheplanet.worldchefs.org.

chefs
young chefs
rebecca van bommel
sustainability

Start your journey towards a more conscious kitchen with Worldchefs’ FREE online Sustainability Education for Culinary Professionals course on Worldchefs Academy! Learn about key topics in food systems at your own pace, and give your career a boost with a valuable digital badge to show you’ve completed the training program.

Feed the Planet is powered by our friends at Electrolux Food Foundation. Visit the Electrolux Food Foundation website here and explore Replate at replate.com.

Categories
Blog Industry Trends

It’s Time for Michelin to Break the Glass Ceiling

By Clare Crowe Pettersson

Paris│28 March, 2024

Earlier this month, The MICHELIN Guide revealed its 2024 selection of top restaurants in France and Germany. The century-old institution can make or break a restaurant. It could also be doing a lot more to break the glass ceiling.

Leaning on young chefs to grow its audience and stay relevant, the Michelin Guide has focused in on the next generation of industry leaders under the age of 40. While more young chefs than ever were honored by the prestigious award, the Guide faces criticism for its continued disparity in gender representation.

The Michelin Guide France includes 639 Starred French restaurants—the most of any country in the world. With 52 chefs celebrating their first Star this year, only six women were among them. In Germany, only three of the 36 Starred restaurants have women as head chefs.

The women behind France’s 2024 Michelin Stars

Eugénie Béziat, the first-ever female head chef at the Ritz Paris’ flagship restaurant, L’Espadon, was the only woman awarded her own one star. For reference, Auguste Escoffier, Worldchefs’ first honorary president, was the Ritz’s first head chef, co-founding the luxury hotel in 1898.

Anne-Sophie Pic remains the only French female chef to earn three Michelin stars for her restaurant, Maison Pic.

Manon Fleury and Laurène Barjhoux earned a star for their Paris restaurant Datil.

Adeline Lesage of Nacre, Emilie Roussey of Le Moulin de Cambelong, and Florencia Montes of Onice earned a star alongside their male co-chefs.

With more and more female-led top restaurants, why aren’t they in the Guide?

About a quarter of chefs are women, and more women are working in kitchens than ever before. So why is recognition so elusive?

In her speech at the 2024 ceremony, The Michelin Guide’s International Director Gwendal Poullennec asked, “Where are the women? Too few women are leading kitchens, despite the fact that more and more of them are working in kitchens.”

A study conducted in 2022 found that of the 2,286 Michelin-starred restaurants spanning 16 countries, just 6% were led by women, and the percentage of the World’s Best 100 restaurants with a female head chef just scratched past 6.5%. For every female-led Michelin-starred establishment, there are 16 run by men.

Industry awards like Michelin are the epitome of global recognition for chefs and restauranteurs, with the power to determine their success in the fine dining realm. With such an established platform to lead, they have an important role in the movement towards a more diverse, equitable, and sustainable hospitality sector.

Increasingly, women are in top kitchens around the world. The question isn’t just “Where are the women?”, it’s why aren’t we honoring the whole cast of characters, male and female, behind a restaurant’s success? Michelin Stars are not awarded to chefs, they are awarded to restaurants. However, the reality is that the system gives credit to the head chef and does little to platform the rest of the team. Michelin, and the industry at large, must address this and do more to highlight the team effort behind the success of a restaurant, from the sous-chef to the dishwasher.

We need more recognition for every member of the hospitality staff. We need greater visibility to encourage diversity at all levels. We need more women in leadership roles. For fine dining, the most marginalized shouldn’t be the niche, they should be the norm.

Women do belong in the kitchen

Whether it be a century ago or today, women often go unseen and unheard.  The reasons behind the underrepresentation of women in leading culinary roles are complex and deeply rooted in sexism and structural inequalities.

So many chefs credit their mothers for inspiring them to pursue culinary careers. They reference their recipes, recounting stories from a matriarch’s kitchen featuring techniques and flavors that would surely put some professional kitchens to shame.

Recognizing unpaid domestic and care work is central to understanding the unique constraints for women in the labor market. It’s a reality most of us have witnessed first-hand over generations. Women are time-poor, exhausted, undervalued, and deprived of the self-care, development, and financial independence necessary for full participation in the labor market. This perpetuates the unjust gendered division of labor, creating a key barrier before women even get into the workplace.

“Across the world, without exception, women carry out three-quarters of unpaid care work, or more than 75% of the total hours provided. Women dedicate on average 3.2 times more time than men to unpaid care work. There is no country where women and men perform an equal share of unpaid care work. As a result, women are constantly time poor, which constrains their participation in the labour market.”

International Labour Organization, 2019

Despite women making up 40% of the global workforce, they still take on the bulk of childcare and household duties. This makes building a career challenging enough, let alone navigating the unique and intense demands of a culinary career. The culture of top-tier gastronomy is especially difficult to reconcile with family life.

The answer isn’t to pretend that gender-based issues don’t exist but to have a supportive workplace where these issues can be addressed and navigated, for chefs of all genders. The long hours, low pay, and lack of benefits that characterize the culinary profession represent a huge issue for every industry professional, regardless of gender. The lack of an appropriate support system for food workers is an issue that impacts men and women alike.

For the industry to move forward, leadership needs to meet the needs of their staff, prioritizing human rights over profits. Rather than focusing on the bottom line, we need to push beyond the basics to empower staff with access to healthcare, better work/life balance, mental health support, and support for a plethora of other challenges from eating disorders to job security.

We need more conversations in our community to address these issues. But it is not only women who are calling for change in the fine dining industry. The culinary space is having a harder time attracting new talent, with young people opting to pursue other professions in light of its reputation.

For anyone entering the industry, and for the many of us who take pride in being a part of it, we have to imagine what we want our lives to look like. For young professionals, envisioning their future might include marriage, children, owning a home, and holidays abroad. For the average person working in a kitchen, is this a realistic vision? It should be, but for most culinary professionals, it’s a long way off. Collectively, we need to work towards a standard for livelihoods that makes these milestones achievable.

What would a women-led industry look like? Perhaps if the female chefs of times gone by had been given the same opportunities to shape our current realities as their male counterparts, we’d see a lot more cooks enjoying better health and being able to afford childcare. Far beyond advocating for women in the culinary industry, we need to advocate for real solutions to long-standing failures for working people.

Incredible progress has been made, thanks to generations of women breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes. Still, so much more work is needed to address the disparity in gender representation, particularly in leadership roles and pay equity. Gains in culinary education standards, apprenticeship opportunities, and mentorship provide hope for a more inclusive industry ahead.

Rewriting the standards (and history) of excellence

Eugénie Brazier was the first woman in history to earn three Michelin Stars (six, actually, with three Stars at two different restaurants). Known for exacting standards, the Lyon-based chef and restaurateur was one of the most influential figures in gastronomy during the 20th century. A single mother, by the time she turned 40 she was the chef-owner of two restaurants and one of the world’s most decorated chefs. She was a mentor to many who passed through her kitchen, including legendary chef Paul Bocuse. Why did he erase her from his history? If only he hadn’t. If only more of us knew her name and credited her legacy.

The new generations are less chauvinistic, which is great to see. I want to see more balance between men and women in kitchens, respecting one another.

Janaína Torres, The World’s Best Female Chef 2024

Until more women and people of color are recognized by a system that puts so much stock in fine dining guides like Michelin, we’re still stuck in the past. As an organization that prides itself of setting the highest international standards, Worldchefs is proud to recognize the many women who make this industry what it is, from the nonnas whose recipes grace our menus to the female-led kitchens shaping the future of the sector.

As we close out Women’s History Month, we renew our commitment to moving the dial on gender equity in kitchens around the globe. Not just as a step towards achieving gender equality, but as a step for a better future for all.


#THISISWORLDCHEFS
This error message is only visible to WordPress admins
Error: There is no connected business account for the user .

Subscribe

* indicates required

What are you looking for?

Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors